Manheim Europe is gearing up for a surge in business from part-exchange vehicles in September as the new registration system creates strong demand for new cars.

Andrew Shepherd, Manheim Auctions senior group auctioneer, predicted the new registration system would help to keep used values steady.

“In addition, it will produce many part-exchanges,” he said. “Used car values should remain steady and any vehicle offering a high specification, low mileage, full service history and a desirable colour will command a high premium.

“Positive activity should ensue in all sectors of the new and used car industry and auction halls and perhaps this new style registration mark will resolve the fall in recent and new car registrations.”

Manheim has launched a chip repair service, Chipwizard, to help maximise used car and part-exchange resale values. Chipwizard, provided through Manheim's Dent Wizard subsidiary, is wiped across the damaged area filling the chips caused by gravel.

Jim Goss, Dent Wizard operations director, said: “Not only is it valet and jet wash proof, it is also more ecologically friendly than other methods.”